New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill Calls for Resignation of Lieutenant Governor After Investigation

<p>New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill called for Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell to resign by Friday following an independent investigation that substantiated allegations of sexual harassment and two ethics violations.</p><p>The investigation revealed that Caldwell made a sexually charged remark to a female staffer, stating, "you young women are looking for young sperm" after she indicated her younger friend was not interested in a romantic relationship with him. Investigators concluded that this comment constituted sexual harassment and deemed Caldwell's denial of making the remark as not credible.</p><p>The staffer reported that she attempted to distance herself from Caldwell at work and avoided traveling with him when possible.</p><p>Sherrill stated, "I’m calling for his resignation and giving him until tomorrow to do so," describing the findings of sexual harassment as "extremely troubling."</p><p>The report also confirmed two ethics violations, noting that Caldwell brought personal guests to ticketed events without prior ethics clearance or payment and made attempts to secure a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship.</p><p>Despite receiving training and warnings, Caldwell continued to bring unpaid guests to events, including on May 23, one day after being formally notified of the investigation.</p><p>Additionally, four days after being notified of the investigation, Caldwell used his state email account to recommend his romantic partner for a leadership position in another executive branch department, referring to her as "my friend" and forwarding her resume and letter of interest without disclosing their romantic relationship.</p><p>Caldwell denied any wrongdoing in a May response to investigators, labeling the allegations as false and misleading, and expressed confidence that the facts would exonerate him. He denied any inappropriate behavior while conducting official business.</p><p>Fox News Digital reached out to Caldwell for comment regarding the report and Sherrill's demand for his resignation.</p><p>Sherrill emphasized that the violations indicated "a pattern of behavior" that continued despite warnings and training. She stated, "The lieutenant governor’s resignation is necessary and in the best interest of New Jersey residents."</p><p>In her announcement, Sherrill also criticized President Donald Trump, stating that he "continues to undermine confidence in public service at the federal level" and that she would not tolerate "a culture that sweeps misconduct under the rug" in New Jersey.</p><p>The investigation was initiated after the state's chief ethics officer received an anonymous complaint in May alleging inappropriate behavior toward women and ethics violations. Caldwell was formally notified of the investigation on May 22.</p>